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Few U.S. cities can claim the history that Boston offers as a matter of course. From the clock tower that sent Paul Revere on his midnight ride to neighborhoods that have changed little for generations, Boston has much to offer. And for those who want to immerse themselves both in Beantown's history and modern points of interest, below is a list of Boston's top things to do. Wise travelers will take advantage of the "T," the nation's first subway line, as well as heeding Boston's moniker as "America's Walking City."

New England Aquarium

With the four-story Giant Ocean Tank as its centerpiece, the New England Aquarium features more than 40,000 creatures, including Myrtle, a 500-pound (227 kilograms) green sea turtle that reigns within.

What to DoBe sure to visit the Edge of the Sea touch tank, the East Coast’s largest hands-on tidal pool experience, with bonnethead sharks and cownose rays.

What to SeePenguins, sea dragons, and Atlantic harbor seals that romp in a natural setting.

Museum of Science

Three levels of engaging exhibits showcase the museum’s theme: "Science is an activity."

What to DoDiscovery Center is a haven for children under the age of 8, with activities designed just for them. Savvy older siblings can visit with Ada and Grace, the two virtual guides in Cahners ComputerPlace.

What to SeeEveryone can enjoy the indoor lightning show created by the world’s largest Van de Graaff generator and the Charles Hayden Planetarium which reopened in early 2011 after a $9 million renovation.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

Opened in 1998 to become the public face of three research museums, the Harvard Museum of Natural History boasts more than 12,000 specimens.

What to DoFind the spectacular Ware Collection of Blaschka Glass Flowers, astonishing both for their beauty and botanical accuracy.

What to SeeBefore leaving the museum, be sure to see the 42-foot (13 meters) skeleton of Kronosaurus, a prehistoric marine reptile; the 1,600-pound (726 kilograms) amethyst geode; and the Great Mammal Hall.

Skywalk Observatory

What to Do"Acoustiguide" audio players provide age-appropriate facts while detailing the view below, while the on-site Dreams of Freedom Museum celebrates the contributions of the city’s many ethnic groups.

What to SeeA video aerial tour of the city with Wings over Boston, that lets visitors soar above their surroundings.

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

This art collection spans the globe as well as the history of mankind.

What to DoEnjoy works by Degas, Gauguin, Monet, Picasso, Rembrandt and Renoir, to name a few.

What to SeeThe new Art of the Americas Wing, which opened in November 2011, adds 51,338 square feet (4,769 square meters) to the museum, doubling the number of works from the collection that can be on view at a single time.

Boston Common

A choice bit of real estate set off in 1634 to serve as a "cow pasture and training field," Boston Common is now an integral part of the city’s life.

What to DoDepending on the season, the park attracts picnickers in summer and ice skaters (who flock to Frog Pond) in winter.

What to SeePublic gatherings are – literally – common; well-known speakers include Martin Luther King Jr., Pope John Paul II, and Gloria Steinem. Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ famous sculpture honoring the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment is located at the park’s northeast corner.

The Freedom Trail

Established more than 50 years ago, those who follow this 2.5-mile (4 kilometers) path will take themselves past 16 nationally significant historic sites. This is one of the top things to do in Boston for all history buffs.

What to DoWell marked by either red bricks or red paint, the trail includes the USS Constitution, launched in 1797; Faneuil Hall, where plans for the Boston Tea Party were laid; the Old State House; and Boston Common.

What to SeeThe Bunker Hill Monument, where the reward for a mere 294 steps to the top of the obelisk is a spectacular view.